Decoding Vietnam’s Gen Z workforce with HR expert Kelvin Nguyen

Welcome to the vibrant world of Vietnam's Gen Z workforce, where the traditional rules of work are being rewritten.

From seeking purpose over paychecks to embracing the fast lane of career growth and reshaping the very concept of the workplace, Vietnam's Gen Z is on a quest to redefine the future of work. 

We explore these dynamic shifts through HR expert Kelvin Nguyen's experienced lens.

Purpose over pay checks: Gen Z's new work mantra

Step aside, hefty pay checks, there's a new player in town for Vietnam's Gen Z, and it’s called 'Purpose'. 

“It's crucial to give them a purpose. Sometimes if you just pay them money it's not enough,”​​ says HR expert Kelvin Nguyen in an episode of You Don't Know Vietnam.

That's right, for this crowd, it’s less about filling the wallet and more about fulfilling the soul.

Kelvin hits the nail on the head, “Sometimes they're looking for the purpose to make an impact on society and to gain some reputation for themselves"​​. 

They’re not just chasing the next promotion; they’re chasing the next big change. It's like they're on a mission.

So, for those trying to attract the bright minds of Gen Z in Vietnam, remember: It’s not just about the paycheck. It’s about the purpose, the passion, and maybe, just maybe, about making a bit of a difference. 

In the world of Gen Z, purpose is more than just a word; it's what gets them out of bed in the morning – and probably what keeps them up at night too!

This is an image of Vietnamese HR and recruitment expert Kelvin Nguyen
You have to give them purpose... There's always someone who can pay them more.
Kelvin Nguyen

HR expert and talent advisor

Purpose over pay checks: Gen Z's new work mantra

It seems this urgency isn't just about impatience; it's ingrained in Vietnam's Gen Z DNA. 

Born into abundance, this generation are in a league of their own. 

As Kelvin puts it, "And there's that extra level of...urgency to kind of move on to make better progress and they feel like they deserve that"​​. 

It's not just about climbing the ladder; it's about teleporting to the top.

And in this digital era, why wait? 

They’re tech-savvy, quick learners, and with a nation of 100 million, the world is their oyster. 

From TikTok sensations to live streamers, they're redefining what it means to make a living. 

Kelvin highlights this entrepreneurial spirit, showing us that the traditional 9-to-5 grind is so last generation for these trailblazers.

So, what's the secret sauce for companies? 

Understanding that for Gen Z, the journey to success is more bullet train than scenic route.  

Keep it fast, keep it fresh, and maybe, just maybe, you'll keep up with the most ‘on-the-go’ generation yet. It’s a marathon at sprint speed, and the finish line is just the beginning for Gen Z.

Embracing the future of hiring in Vietnam

One thing is clear: this generation is not just changing the game; they're creating an entirely new playbook. 

They seek purpose and impact, race towards success with unparalleled zeal, and navigate the complexities of work with creativity and adaptability. 

For businesses and leaders looking to harness the potential of this dynamic generation, the message is to adapt, innovate, and most importantly, tune into the unique rhythm of Gen Z. In doing so, we're not just aligning with a workforce; we're partnering with a powerful force of change and innovation.

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